Pregame analysis and predictions of the New York Islanders vs. Toronto Maple Leafs NHL game to be played on December 31, 2024 on ESPN.

Injuries have wreaked havoc on the Maple Leafs' crease throughout the season. Joseph Woll opened the year on the injured reserve with a lower-body issue, and now Anthony Stolarz — who's put up All-Star-quality numbers as the starter — could be out of action until February with a knee injury .

Toronto is hoping that Matthews can finish the 2024-25 campaign healthy whenever he returns. The veteran forward took over the Maple Leafs' captaincy from Tavares during the offseason nearly one year after the former signed a four-year, $53 million extension with the franchise.

Toronto's goaltending situation is suddenly murkier than it was a few weeks ago, and now they've set out their game plan for the future while Anthony Stolarz heals.

Bo Horvat had two goals and an assist, Isaiah George scored his first NHL goal and the New York Islanders beat the Toronto Maple Leafs 6-3 on Saturday night.

Auston Matthews is back practicing with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Toronto was minus captain Auston Matthews after he took a cross-check to the back late in Friday’s 6-3 victory over the Buffalo Sabres

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The third line tied the game for the Leafs in the middle frame with Bobby McMann hitting double-digits scoring off his own rebound. Similarly to the first period, it didn’t take long for the Capitals to regain the lead.

The Toronto Maple Leafs worked hard but lost 5-2 to the Washington Capitals without captain Auston Matthews on Saturday night.